Eczema

Eczema is a term used to describe multiple kinds of inflamed skin conditions that cause chronic, dry, red, itchy rashes. The symptoms of eczema can also include blistering, oozing, scaly, or result in thickened skin. Eczema can develop on any part of the body. People that have eczema have a higher risk of allergic conditions like hay fever and asthma. There are many varying kinds of eczema, with the most common form being atopic dermatitis.

What Causes Eczema?

In atopic dermatitis or atopic eczema, there is a tendency for excess inflammation in the skin. This often occurs in patients with a history of allergies such as hay fever, asthma, or sensitive skin. It is a common pediatric dermatology condition seen in infants, children, and young adults. Most people will outgrow eczema before adulthood. Eczema commonly runs in families because certain genes can cause some people to experience extra sensitivity in their skin. It is thought that an overactive immune system plays a part in causing eczema. A skin defect that allows moisture out through the skin while letting germs in is also a possible cause for eczema.

Eczema can be triggered by:

Dry Skin

Cold/Dry Climates

Heat & Sweat

Stress

Irritants (Wool, Synthetic Fabrics, Soap)

Rough Materials

Cosmetic Products

Illness

Treatments

It is difficult to self diagnose eczema. Our Board Certified Dermatologist can help you find and treat the underlying causes of eczema. Often, the condition improves with adolescence, but many patients can be affected throughout adulthood.

The key to treating eczema is good skin care. Things like using a mild soap or soap substitute to avoid drying your skin can play a part in managing eczema. Also using a good moisturizer can help to make the difference. There are many different forms of treatment for eczema, that’s why we recommend setting up an appointment so we can personalize a treatment plan for you. These may include topical medications, antibiotics, or antihistamines. Dr. George will help to treat and develop a strategy for preventing further breakouts/reactions.

Treating Severe Cases of Eczema

For severe cases, Dr. George may prescribe drugs such as Dupixent. Dupixent is used to treat moderate-to-severe atopic dermatitis that is unable to be controlled with tropical treatments. It can also be used in conjunction with topical treatments. Dupixent can help you to achieve clearer skin, a reduction in itch, and overall skin health improvement. Although atopic dermatitis is a common and sometimes life-long condition, with the proper treatment, the disease can be controlled in the majority of people.

Do you suffer from dry, itchy, cracked, and easily irritated skin?

Get some relief! Set up your appointment with our Board Certified Dermatologist, Dr. Mary Noël George. She will help to treat and keep your eczema under control.

What Our Patients Are Saying

Dr. George and her staff are WONDERFUL!! Dr. George is VERY professional, yet very personal. She ALWAYS takes the time to ask and chat about my children for a few minutes that were former patients of hers. She NEVER rushes me and answers all of my concerns. Dr. George is a VERY down to earth person. Thank you Dr. George and staff for being so caring.